"There isn't a day that goes by that I do not speak of NephCure. I've been deeply involved in NephCure fund-raising events aimed at supporting research for a cure. Since our son is in a medicine-free remission, I feel the need to be thankful and know that our lives have been blessed, for it has given me the strength to help those who have not been as lucky as our son, Gabriel."
Donna Colucci
"Heading the North Jersey Chapter of the NephCure Foundation, allows me to raise awareness of Nephrotic Syndrome (NS) & FSGS, encourage people in similar situations either on online support groups, speaking with them at the membership drives, or communicating with parents on the telephone. It gives me great pleasure to help people. Since, Gabriel, who was diagnosed with NS when he was two, has been in remission for 3 years, I feel the need to be thankful. Today, he is a healthy, 13 year old boy who loves to play football, baseball, and basketball.
My family was blessed with the news of our third child right after Gabriel hit remission. That was my confirmation that he was going to be okay. I truly believe that it has given me the strength to help those who have not been as lucky as, Gabriel.
I have the pleasure of serving on the HUMC Joseph M. Sanzari’s Children’s Hospital Consumer Advisory Board, expressing the needs of patients and their families in times of sickness, help with the admission process, and some rules and regulations.
NephCure has become a part of my daily doings. Planning fundraising events like Step Forward, September 16, 2007 (more here) to bring more people together in hopes for a cure and better treatment of NS & FSGS.
I have recently met Tommy Mills, a retired grandfather who will skydive to bring attention to his grandson's condition - Nephrotic Syndrome. “Diving for Derek” is scheduled for September 8, 2007. Tommy is a total inspiration to me, and proves that people want to help. I remember well, the day I received an email from his grandson's mother. We talked a while and shed some tears together, but, in reality we grew strong together. Sharing stories, letting each other know we are not alone. That is what I feel I am supposed to do, thank you, NephCure Foundation."
Donna Colucci
To read more about Donna's commitment to this important cause, click here. Join Donna's efforts to bring hope to other patients and their families and contact her via email at decesquared@verizon.net
For further information, call 1 (866) NephCure.
